by Cindy Tabacchi

Created on: May 29, 2009

Losing independence is something many older people fear. Stories from nursing homes past may keep some people from considering an assisted living facility, even as they experience a decreased ability to care for themselves. Finding an affordable facility that is also close to family can sometimes be challenging.

I recently spoke with a couple facing this difficult decision. At 89 and 92 years old, they are still caring for themselves in their own home, but are experiencing health problems that limit their activities. They have considered moving to an assistant living facility, but have concerns. When Grandma was in a Home, they wouldn't let her sleep when she wanted to. She had to be on their schedule. We need to be able to sleep when we feel like sleeping, she said, You have to wear your key around your neck or people will steal your things when you're not in your room. Their knowledge is based on nursing homes of the 1960s and 1970s.

The Rogue Valley is home to several facilities which encompass different levels of care. Nursing care is available for those who need the most daily help. Assisted living situations allow more independence while providing some daily services such as meals and transportation. Retirement communities offer completely independent living with opportunities to socialize and engage in activities with other mature adults.

Facilities may offer one or two levels of living situations. Some offer all three levels within one community. In Continuing Care Retirement Communities, residents may move from one level of care to another level and back again as needed to address changing health care needs.

Mountain West Retirement Communities claim to meet individual needs by stressing the importance of choice, independence, dignity, and privacy. The Rogue Valley Manor addresses the issue of cost by using financial contracts to provide quality care at lower than market rates. Anna Maria Creekside offers services that enhance the quality of life without dominating it. The Fountains offers 19 communities with no two alike.

Everyone has different needs, and it may take some research to find the facility which best satisfies them. There are many things to consider. Short term requirements and anticipated long term needs should be evaluated.

The older couple mentioned earlier have chosen to remain in their own home for now. They have hired someone to help them with housework, grocery shopping and transportation to doctor's appointments. Hiring people to help with those tasks they can no longer accomplish is another option for managing independent living with assistance.

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